NCJ Number
142579
Journal
Journal of Drug Education Volume: 23 Issue: 1 Dated: (1993) Pages: 97-104
Date Published
1993
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This study describes data from 16,117 high school students in 15 cities in Brazil, focusing on their participation in a number of extracurricular activities and their alcohol and drug abuse.
Abstract
Results generally revealed no association between attendance at artistic, community, or sports activities and the use of these substances. However, a weak but constant negative association was found regarding alcohol or other drug consumption and attendance at religious activities. Findings raise questions about current prevailing views in Brazilian society regarding the effectiveness of extracurricular activities in preventing drug abuse, as well as the view that "idle" youth tend to be potential drug users. Results represent an initial step toward a broader appraisal and discussion of these issues. Table, figures, and 12 references (Author summary modified)